What Do I Really Need?

Different needs for different trips
There is no such thing as the perfect "gear list". Different trips and conditions require different kinds of equipment and clothing. The key to gearing up wisely is to concentrate on the basic essentials first, then add gear items as you gain experience and new needs arise.

The 10(+) Essentials
These items are essential for backcountry travel of any kind. They address basic safety and comfort needs, and should be carried whether you're going out for a week in the backcountry or a weekend at your local state park.

(Note: We've added 2 items here to the original "Ten Essentials" list. Items #11 and #12 address 2 "modern" wilderness concerns: ozone depletion and contaminated water supplies.)

  1. Extra clothing
  2. Extra food and water
  3. First-aid kit
  4. Map (in a water-tight case)
  5. Compass
  6. Flashlight (with extra batteries)
  7. Matches (waterproof, or stored in a water-tight container)
  8. Fire starter
  9. Knife (or multi-use camp tool)
  10. Sunglasses
  11. Sunscreen
  12. Water Filter (or other method of water treatment)

Who needs the 10+ essentials? They should be carried by every backpacker on every trip. NOTE: during short trips on well-marked trails, families or small groups that travel closely together may choose to carry 1 set of essentials between them.


A basic gear list overview

Below is a list of basic items that you should concentrate on when gearing up for your first few trips. You don't need all of these items to enjoy every backpacking trip. But as you gain more experience (and continue through this online clinic), you'll learn that each one serves a useful purpose.

1. Basic Safety

The 10(+) essentials

 

2. Storage

Backpack, gear bags

 

3. Shelter

Tent, ground cloth, sleeping bag, sleeping pad

 

4. Eating/Drinking

Stove, fuel bottle, cookware, utensils, water treatment system, water container, food

 

5. Basic Tools/ Supplies

Knife/multi-use tool, flashlight/headlamp, general camp supplies (insect repellent, sunscreen, soap)

 

6. Personal Items

Clothing, socks, footwear, incidentals